Owner Michael O'Leary with Jane Mangan© Photo Healy Racing
Roi Du Mee made the most of his lower mark over timber when taking the Proudstown Handicap Hurdle at Navan.
Gordon Elliott 's charge was rated 30lb lower on his hurdles rating compared to his chase mark and Jane Mangan took another valuable 7lb off his back.
The French-bred was sent off 2/1 favourite and tracked leading pair Whodoyouthink and Western Leader in the 2m7f event.
He hit the front three from home but was followed through by Colbert Station
That rival couldn't match him when pushed came to shove before the last and Roi Du Mee stayed on strongly in the closing stages for a nine-and-a-half length win.
The winner was landing a hat-trick following chase wins at Punchestown, in Grade Three company, and in a Listed event at Thurles.
It was also a treble on the card for owners Gigginstown House Stud following the earlier successes of Un Atout and Rule The World 0A.
"He's obviously better known as a chaser but it was a good pot here (€17,875 first prize) and we decided to have a go," said Elliott.
"He's been a great horse for us and it would be nice if we had a few more like him.
"He'll go for something like the 2m6f Listed chase at Tramore on New Year's Day."
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
